Batteries for Hotel & Lodging Smoke Alarms

In the United States, the Hotel and Motel Fire Safety Act of 1990 states that it is a legal requirement for hotels and motels to have ‘hard-wired, single-station smoke detectors in each guestroom in accordance with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard 72’.

Research conducted by the NFPA between 2014 and 2018 showed that 18% of battery-powered smoke alarms failed to operate, most commonly due to power source issues.  Therefore, it is essential to choose a reliable, long lasting battery.

Although it may seem like rechargeable (secondary) cells fit the bill, many fire alarm manufacturers do not recommend using them, as they lose charge more rapidly than non-rechargeable (primary) ones.  Therefore, Ultralife have been manufacturing long lasting primary 9V batteries for smoke detectors for over 20 years; 15 years ago becoming a leader in the field with the introduction of Thin Cell® technology.  Three individual thin foil-cased cells allowed the 9V to achieve a capacity of 1200mAh; 50% more than leading brand-named lithium competitors.

Lithium 9V

Our flagship smoke alarm battery, the Lithium 9V, also performs well under varying temperatures with an effective 900 Ohm discharge rate from -40°C to +60°C.  Additionally, an internal shutdown separator closes the pores of the battery if internal temperature elevates too quickly.  As this battery can produce higher pulse and continuous current, a polymer positive temperature coefficient (PPTC) has been added to further increase safety.

Are you a hotelier looking to replace an existing 9V battery?

Ultralife's Lithium option is ideal as it’s the same size as a standard alkaline battery, making it consumer-replaceable.  Furthermore, it lasts up to 5 times longer than ordinary alkaline 9V, and as such will not need to be replaced as often, saving both time and money.

Are you a manufacturer of smoke alarms for hotels?

The battery service/shelf life of up to 10 years is ideal for incorporation into premium lines of 10-year ionization-type alarms.

Summary

Protecting your hotel and motel guests with the installation of a smoke detector is a legal requirement in the United States.  Manufacturers of fire alarms do not recommend using rechargeable batteries due to a shorter service life than non-rechargeable alternatives.  Ultralife offer 9V batteries with high capacity, and which operate in wide temperature ranges.  With over 30 years' experience, you can be assured of the highest quality product.